When it comes to learning code, there are a lot of different options available. You can try to learn on your own with resources like Udemy, or you can attend a code bootcamp. Coding bootcamps have become increasingly popular in the UK in recent years, and for good reason - they offer a number of benefits that self-paced courses don't. In this article, we'll discuss some of the key benefits of learning code with an instructor.
In this article, we will cover a number of topics to outline the main differences between a coding bootcamp and learning to code on your own, with something like Udemy or Treehouse.
1. What is Udemy?
2. What is a coding bootcamp?
3. Why is an instructor led coding bootcamp, better than learning with Udemy or Treehouse?
4. What are the chances of getting hired after completing a coding bootcamp?
What is Udemy?
Udemy is a platform where you can learn a range of different skills online, including a majority of coding languages, taking you from a complete beginner, through to more in-depth languages. There are over 204,000 courses available on the platform, with individuals allowed to submit courses of their own choosing.
The main downside of Udemy is that there is no instructor interaction - you are essentially learning on your own. This can be a problem if you get stuck or have questions, as you won't have anyone to help you out. Additionally, there is no guarantee that the courses you take will be of good quality.
Overall, Udemy is a good option if you want to learn a range of different skills relatively cheaply, but it's not ideal if you want to focus on learning code.
What is a coding bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is a type of immersive, full-time learning experience that focuses on teaching individuals how to code. Bootcamps usually last for around 3 months and require participants to dedicate all of their time to learning.
One of the main benefits of a coding bootcamp is that you are taught by an instructor. This means that you have access to guidance and help whenever you need it, as well as support from other students in the class. Additionally, bootcamps usually have a more focused curriculum than resources like Udemy, meaning you're more likely to learn everything you need in order to start coding.
The main downside of coding bootcamps is that they can be expensive, with most courses costing several thousand pounds. However, this is a small price to pay for the amount of knowledge and skills you will gain. An example of this is the full-stack coding bootcamp offered by Tech Educators, which costs £5,500 for the entire course, be that online or remote, full-time or part-time. Other shorter coding bootcamps are available, such as our Next.js coding bootcamp, which will teach individuals with basic programming knowledge the fundementals of Next.js, over a much shorter timeframe.
Why is an instructor led coding bootcamp, better than learning with Udemy or Treehouse?
When it comes to learning to code, an instructor led coding bootcamp is the best way to go. Here are a few reasons why:
1. An instructor led coding bootcamp offers more guidance and support than learning on your own with resources like Udemy or Treehouse. With an instructor, you have someone who can help you out whenever you get stuck or have questions, which can be invaluable when you're starting out.
2. A coding bootcamp has a more focused curriculum than resources like Udemy. This means that you're more likely to learn everything you need in order to start coding. Bootcamps also often have ties with employers, meaning that you'll be better prepared for a job once you've completed the course.
3. Coding bootcamps are usually much more expensive than resources like Udemy, but the knowledge and skills you gain are worth the investment. Bootcamps offer a 3-month immersive learning experience, as opposed to self-paced courses that can last for months or even years.
4. Learning with others is a great way to keep you focussed. Self-paced courses can set you up to coast through, without a pacing that would be expected within a work environment. There is also the benefit of not only engaging with the coding bootcamp instructor but also with your classmates. This includes sharing ideas, as well as pair-coding, something many companies use as part of their development process.
What are the chances of getting hired after completing a coding bootcamp?
The chances of getting hired after completing a coding bootcamp are high. Coding bootcamps are designed to teach individuals how to code, and as a result, they give you the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.
Most coding bootcamps have ties with employers, meaning that you'll be better prepared for a job once you've completed the course. Additionally, bootcamps often have a placement program, which helps graduates find jobs.
So, what are you waiting for? If you're interested in learning to code, then a coding bootcamp is the best way to go! You can sign up to a coding bootcamp taster session here, or if you are considering learning games development, why not try our unity coding bootcamp taster session.
About the Author
James has 8 years with Fortune 200 US firm ITW, experience of managing projects in China, USA, and throughout Europe. James has worked with companies such as Tesco, Vauxhall, ITW, Serco, McDonalds. James has experience in supporting start-up and scale up companies such as Readingmate, Gorilla Juice and Harvest London. James completed his MBA at the University of East Anglia in 2018.
